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[June 2009]
Iranian Tableware Line Relaunched With Sama
A new production plant was recently started up at Ashkan Chini, a major Iranian producer of tableware and plastic utensils. The entire order is being supplied by Sama, a German member-company of the Sacmi Group and leading international supplier of ceramic-making machines and plants to the tableware industry.
The first two stages of the installation – which include machines needed to complete the biscuit, glazed firing and decorative elements – have been completed and the plant is already operational with a potential output capacity of some 7,500 tons. Capacity is currently described as “potential” because, owing to specific managerial choices regarding the current market situation, the installed output capacity – soon to be boosted by installing a second spray dryer and a second kiln – is not fully used.
The Iranian market has huge potential in terms of both steadily increasing internal demand and the possibility of producing for the export market. However, noted Sama, it is also a country in which the underlying industrial culture needed to make full use of the potential of new start-ups is a weak one.
Nevertheless, thanks to Sama technology, the plant recently started up at Ashkan Chini is now Iran’s leading plant when it comes to producing the highest quality porcelain, according to the German supplier. Although not yet used to capacity, the plant represents, from a technological standpoint, a marked level of innovation compared to the usual standards in the area, especially as regards the innovative spray dryer processes, isostatic pressing, pressure casting and fast firing – all fine-tuned by Ashkan Chini thanks to the experience and skill of the Sacmi Group.
ENDS